evoke

UK: ɪˈvəʊk | US: ɪˈvoʊk

Definition

  1. vt. to bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind

  2. vt. to elicit or draw forth (a response or reaction)

  3. vt. to summon (a spirit or deity) through ritual

Structure
e <out>voke <call>e <out>voke <call>
Etymology

"Evoke" originates from Latin "evocare," combining "e-" (out) and "vocare" (to call). It originally referred to summoning spirits or deities (e.g., in rituals) but expanded metaphorically to mean drawing forth emotions or memories. The word retains its core logic of "calling out" something hidden or latent.

Examples

  1. The song evoked memories of her childhood.

  2. His speech evoked strong emotions in the audience.

  3. The ritual was believed to evoke ancestral spirits.

  4. The painting evokes a sense of tranquility.

  5. The smell of rain evoked nostalgia for her hometown.